DFS Foster Care Program Manager

State of Delaware•Dover, DE

About The Position

This position is part of the Foster Care Resource Team and supports the Foster Care Resource Program, including oversight of special placements, out-of-state resources, foster care recruitment, and contract management for foster care- and kinship-related services. The role may involve out-of-state travel to review or monitor foster care resources and requires statewide travel, which may include driving at night or in adverse weather. A valid driver's license is required as a condition of hire. The Program Manager plans, coordinates, evaluates, and oversees child welfare programs and services delivered by agency staff and contracted providers. The position monitors operations and performance for effectiveness and compliance; assesses program needs; analyzes data and research; develops or recommends program improvements; advises staff and stakeholders on complex child welfare matters; manages procurement and contracts; monitors program budgets; and prepares required reports. The position may supervise two or more staff members. The role is eligible for telework and alternative work schedules under the State of Delaware's policy.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or higher in Behavioral or Social Science or a related field.
Three years of experience in health or human services work, such as applying theories, principles, laws, and practices of programs and services that assist individuals, families, or communities.
One year of experience evaluating case flow, priorities, and performance and making recommendations for improvements.
Coursework, training, and/or work experience in contract management and control, including ensuring compliance with contract terms and negotiating changes to existing contracts.
Coursework, training, and/or work experience in developing policies or procedures.
A valid driver's license that is not suspended, revoked, cancelled, or disqualified.
Legally authorized to work in the United States.
Satisfactory criminal background check and pre-employment drug testing as conditions of hire.

Responsibilities

Plan, coordinate, evaluate, and oversee child welfare programs and related operations and services delivered by agency staff and contracted providers.
Monitor daily operations and staff work to support efficiency, effectiveness, performance, and compliance with agency, state, and federal requirements, professional mandates, and best practices.
Plan, organize, and conduct program needs assessments and develop performance metrics, reporting systems, and record-keeping formats.
Conduct data analysis and research on child welfare best practices, program strategies, local trends, and effective services and supports for children and families.
Identify internal trends, issues, and challenges; develop or revise services based on research, evaluation, and best practices; and recommend corrective actions or other improvements.
Provide subject matter expertise, guidance, consultation, and recommendations to staff, management, agencies, and stakeholders on complex child welfare challenges.
Develop requests for proposals, evaluate vendor proposals, and submit recommendations to a supervisor.
Participate in contract negotiations and develop contracts or agreements for approved bids.
Monitor budget allocations and expenditures for program activities and contracted providers and may participate in budget preparation.
Track, analyze, and interpret data and documentation to prepare internal and mandatory federal reports.
Review, monitor, and train staff on new or revised policies, procedures, and legislation.
Represent the unit, division, or department at meetings and on committees and task forces.
May supervise two or more merit full-time, casual seasonal, and/or contractual staff, including planning, assigning, reviewing, evaluating, coaching, training, disciplining, and recommending hiring, termination, and promotion.
Perform other related duties as required.
Travel statewide and potentially out of state to review or monitor foster care resources.